26 million Americans have diabetes

A new estimate conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found that up to 26 million Americans currently have diabetes and 42 percent of them are senior citizens.

This means that older adults face an unprecedented risk of being diagnosed with this condition and many do not even know about it - the research shows that 27 percent of diabetics are not aware that they have the disease.

Because more people are living with diabetes - and living longer - researchers have shared some advice for those looking to lead a healthy retirement living.

"We know that a structured lifestyle program that includes losing weight and increasing physical activity can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes," said Ann Albright, director of the CDC's Division of Diabetes Translation.

While a senior living a healthy lifestyle may be at a lower risk for diabetes, more than a quarter (27 percent) currently have the disease.

One study has shown that food may be a primary factor in causing diabetes.

"The real...

solution is eliminating fast-action carbs such as sweetened food and beverages, plus refined carbohydrates - while eating more slow-acting carbohydrates, such as greens, vegetables and whole grains, and other fiber-rich foods," Dr. Stefan Ripich said in a statement.